LOCAL: I-10 Corridor, Leon Springs, Fair Oaks Ranch, The Dominion, Sonoma Ranch February 2016

TEXAS 46 UPDATE

PG. 14 Expansion welcomed by BISD

PG. 27 EAT LOCAL JUICESSENTIAL Air Force dentist offers fresh and healthy juices at store

HANDLING THE HERD COMMUNITY NEWS VOL. 1, ISSUE 5

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LEON SPRINGS FAIR OAKS RANCH THE DOMINION 78015 78023 78255 78256 78257

SB-1168

Education, feed ban voted best bets for deer in Fair Oaks Ranch SONOMA RANCH

New laws working for HOAs PG.22 Lawmakers wanted to create clarity, including on voting rules

INSIDE YOUR COMMUNITY

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Adults paired with students to offer support and guidance at school

PG. 05 LOCAL COMMENTARY It's not until 2018, but San Antonio is getting ready for the big 3-0-0 bash

PG. 06 LOCAL EDITORIAL Ride-hailing companies create a private-sector opportunity and an alternative to subsidized mass transit

PG. 11 LOCAL LOWDOWN Offering a quick snapshot of new businesses, bars and restaurants, plus community news updates

FEB. 8 - MARCH 14, 2016

Building musical bridges PG.17 Free concerts featuring diverse

talents strike the right notes from Boerne to San Fernando Cathedral, fans say

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FROM THE EDITOR tedwards@localcommunitynews.com

President Harold J. Lees Publisher Gregg Rosenfield Director of Operations Jaselle Luna

Assoc. Publisher Rick Upton EDITORIAL Executive Editor Thomas Edwards News Staff Collette Orquiz, Bain Serna and Will Wright Contributing Writers Ron Aaron Eisenberg, Peter Moralez, Eric Moreno, Edmond Ortiz, Arthur Schechter, Lucille Sims Thomas and Susan Yerkes ART Creative Director Florence D. Edwards Contributing Photographer Rudy B. Ornelas ADVERTISING Zone Manager Marc Olson Controller Keith Sanders READER SERVICE Mailing Address 4204 Gardendale St., Ste. 201 SA, TX 78229 Phone Fax (210) 338.8842 (210) 616.9677 Advertising Inquiries jluna@localcommunitynews.com Story Ideas: tips@localcommunitynews.com Website: www.salocallowdown.com LOCAL Community News publications Zone 1: 78204, 78205, 78209, 78210, 78212, 78215 Zone 2: 78213, 78230, 78231, 78248, 78249 Zone 3: 78216, 78232, 78247 Zone 4/5: 78109, 78148, 78233, 78239 78108, 78132, 78154, 78266 Zone 6: 78258, 78259, 78260, 78261

customshopguitars.com 17803 LA CANTERA TER #7110 (NEXT TO PIATTI IN THE EILAN) SAN ANTONIO, TX 78256 210-560-2700 INFO@CUSTOMSHOPGUITARS.COM

For advertising, customer service or editorial, please call us at 210-338-8842 or write to us at: Local Community News 4204 Gardendale St., Ste. 201 San Antonio, TX 78229 Reproduction in whole or in part without our permission is prohibited, 2016 Helen Publishing LLC and Local Community News LLC, all rights reserved.

WWW.SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM

Submitting your news

N

ot long ago, a person who sent a press release that didn’t get published asked me, “What am I doing wrong?”

The answer is simple, I told her: “Either you didn’t follow our deadlines or the information wasn’t pertinent to the readers in our zones.”

Since this is the new year, let’s get back to basics for folks who want to send news items, calendar happenings, events or anything like that to LOCAL Community News.

LOCAL publishes six hyperlocal, free, monthly community newspapers targeted to specific groupings of ZIP codes, or zones, reaching more than 200,000 readers.

These ZIP-code zones can be found at the bottom of the staff box, usually next to this column. They also are listed in the LOCAL media kit, available upon request.

If the news release details an event that isn’t in one of the ZIP codes, we probably won’t use the item. The information needs to be relevant to where our readers live and do business.

Second, as mentioned above, we publish monthly newspapers. That means the publications have an extended production schedule, similar to a magazine. Once layout has started, it is problematic to stop and tear up a page just to add a small item.

So please send those notices at least two months in advance if possible.

Even a month is OK, but I can’t promise inclusion. We’ll do our best.

The easiest way to submit your news is by email. Rocket the information to tips@localcommunitynews.com or tedwards@localcommunitynews.com.

We love our readers. We want to provide them with the most timely and relevant information possible, but we can only do so when everyone understands the submission guidelines.

THOMAS EDWARDS EXECUTIVE EDITOR ON THE COVER: Anya Grokhovski, a former concert pianist in Russia, founded Musical Bridges Around the World, which is headquartered near Leon Springs. The organization offers free world-class concerts. See the story on page 17. Photo by Rudy B. Ornelas

5

SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM

LOCAL COMMENTARY

Preparing for SA’s big 3-0-0 jamboree

by SUSAN YERKES

I

f there’s one thing San Antonio loves, it’s a party. So, you can bet the bash for the city’s 300th birthday, coming up in 2018, will be a big one.

City mothers and fathers have consistently considered early May 1718 as the official birth of San Antonio. Back in 1691, a Spanish expedition stopped at a fertile area around San Pedro Springs, called Yanaguana by the natives. On June 13, the feast day of St. Anthony of Padua, they named the spot in honor of the saint. The expedition continued onward, but the name was added to Spanish maps, and has endured.

However, most historians recognize 1718, when the mission and seat of government were actually dedicated, as San Antonio’s anniversary date. On May 1, Mission San Antonio de Valero was established on the banks of San Pedro Creek. Four days later, a presidio – a fortified base usually accompanied by Spanish missions – was established nearby. The surrounding Villa de Béjar soon grew to a whopping 300 residents.

In 1731, 55 Canary Islanders, sent

by Spain as the first official colonists, immigrated, and the cornerstone for San Fernando church was laid to mark the town center. By August the same year, the first municipal elections were held.

Growth during the first 150 years was pretty slow. By 1803, San Antonio counted 2,500 residents. By 1870 – after the Battle of the Alamo, the establishment of the Republic of Texas, U.S. statehood and the Civil War – the population numbered 12,000. Just seven years later, after the railroad arrived, inhabitants more than tripled to 37,000. The strong military presence brought more folks to town, as did a big exodus from Mexico during its revolutionary years.

And, look at us now: The seventhlargest city nationwide, with nearly 1.5 million residents – more than 2

million if you count the surrounding metropolitan area – and still one of the fastest-growing U.S. regions. Of course, there’s urban sprawl, traffic and all the headaches of big-city life to challenge us.

So, as we celebrate our 300th, it’s also critical to keep focused on planning for the future.

San Antonio is used to change. In 1968, years of planning came to fruition in HemisFair, the international exhibition, which played a major role in transforming downtown and establishing the city as a gateway to Latin and South America.

The fair lost money, but it changed the collective mindset of San Antonio. An equally important part of our history was the creation of the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio.

It’s going to be hard to top such sweeping change for San Antonio’s big 3-0-0. The city’s Tricentennial Commission, led by Edward Benavides and Asia Ciaravino and a formidable board of directors (including Canary

Islands native and longtime champion of San Antonio international trade Dr. Alfonso Chiscano), promises great things.

We’ll start seeing the gradual rollout this spring.

Everyone will surely notice widespread emphasis on the historical Spanish missions after the honor of being designated a World Heritage Site. It will be fascinating to see how far along plans have come for an extensive revamping of the Alamo Plaza area by the city and state. A redesign of the HemisFair grounds will be further along.

I also hope the University of Texas at San Antonio Institute of Texan Cultures, originally built during HemisFair, will have a premiere place in showcasing the diverse and fascinating history of our corner of the state.

Right now, plans are still forming.

Check out celebrate2018.com and see how you can contribute. Let’s party like there is a tomorrow – a great one! syerkes@localcommunitynews.com

AS WE CELEBRATE OUR 300TH, IT’S ALSO CRITICAL TO KEEP FOCUSED ON PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE.

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In spite of the bump in the road last April 1, when Uber and Lyft stopped operating in San Antonio (though rides continued in the suburbs), city fathers such as District 8

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Councilman Ron Nirenberg worked hard to get both revving again on local streets.

As Nirenberg told the media, the requirements placed on both companies

by San Antonio at the time were in essence needless roadblocks, and created barriers to more transportation in an already heavily regulated industry.

Ride-hailing businesses also provide a private-sector answer to subsidized, public mass-transit systems by offering affordable, reliable and rapid door-to-door services.

These transportation network companies aren’t getting a free pass from San Antonio, either. Their services are on a nine-month trial basis, which will be reviewed to ensure there are no safety issues or other concerns.

The three are now on board with city terms stipulating increased vetting of drivers, overseen by the San Antonio Police Department.

Prospective customers access ride-hailing services through cellphone apps, and local drivers using personal vehicles shuttle these assigned passengers. With the city’s program, patrons can now verify operators who underwent additional background clearances.

It’s good to see the brakes have been taken off free enterprise and given the green light.

-The Local Community News editorial board includes Harry Lees, Gregg Rosenfield and Thomas Edwards.

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FITNESS

ROTARY CLUB The Rotary Club of San Antonio at The Dominion meets Tuesdays at 11:45 a.m. at The Dominion Country Club, 1 Dominion Drive. The club hosts its 2016 Sporting Clay Shoot for Hope Fundraiser March 11. For more including registration, visit http://www.dominionrotary.org/.

DO YOU HAVE A LITTLE EXPLORER? Most Wednesdays from 10-11 a.m. the Cibolo Nature Center & Farm’s visitor center, 140 City Park Road in Boerne, hosts preschoolers.

Young adventurers will sing songs, make crafts, play games, explore the outdoors and listen to stories. For more, call 830-249-4616 or contact Stephanie Colvard at Stephanie@cibolo.org.

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ART

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MARKETPLACE DEALS Located in the heart of Boerne’s historical district on Main Plaza, 100 N. Main St., Boerne Market Days is a monthly two-day event, Saturdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Enjoy the outdoor setting and browse the wares of vendors, artists and craftsmen, while listening to Texas homegrown music. For more, call 844-8193 or visit www.boernemarketdays.com.

FEB. 13-14 & MAR. 12-13

ART: IT’S MORE THAN A NAME On the month’s second Saturday, 13 stroll Boerne’s streets or take the bus from 5-8 p.m. and enjoy an art experience. During “Second Saturday Art and Wine,” galleries are free and open to the public. Artwork from local

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SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM HAPPENING continues from pg. 08

6:30 p.m. For more, call 830-357-2000.

dealers can be viewed, as beverages and hors d’oeuvres are consumed. For more, visit www.secondsaturdayartandwine. com or call 830-833-0621.

PRESCHOOL FUN Mother Nature makes a special 17 appearance at the Cibolo Nature Center & Farm’s visitor center, 140 City Park Road in Boerne, from 10-11 a.m. to explain weather and seasons to tykes. Cost is $5 per family. For more, call 830-249-4616 or contact Stephanie Colvard at Stephanie@cibolo.org.

FEBRUARY

BEE HERE Come to the Cibolo FEBRUARY Nature Center & Farm’s 13 auditorium, 140 City Park Road in Boerne, for a workshop about beekeeping. From 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Don Fraser will present “Honey, I’ve Got the Bees.” Registration costs $110; lunch is provided. For more, contact Ben Eldredge at ben@cibolo.org or call 830-249-4616.

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CAN WE TALK? The third Thursday of each 18 month, the second-floor conference room at the Heath Public Library, 451 N. Main St. in Boerne, hosts a multi-faith talk at 10 a.m. The “Soul Salon” brings folks together to discuss current and relevant topics in an informative and respectful manner. A library volunteer leads the program. Coffee is provided.

For more, visit www.ci.boerne.tx.us.

FEBRUARY

FLOORE DANCING Strut your stuff beginning at 6 14 p.m. when everyone is welcome at John T. Floore Country Store, 14992 Old Bandera Road in Helotes, for “Family Night & Free Dance,” with Texas Rimshot.

For more, visit www.liveatfloores.com.

FEBRUARY

WATCH THE BIRDIE Carpool from the Cibolo Nature 20 Center & Farm’s parking lot, 140 City Park Road in Boerne, to Old Daley Ranch for bird-watching. Local birder and landowner Dick Park will lead

FEBRUARY

BISD TRUSTEES FEBRUARY The third Monday of every 15 month, the Boerne Independent School District board regularly meets in the Administration Building at 123 W. Johns Road. A closed session begins at 5 p.m., with an open-to-the-public forum at

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HAPPENING continues from pg. 09 “Attracting Birds: Practical Application” from 9 a.m. to noon. Cost is $20 for naturecenter members, $25 for nonmembers.

For more, contact Ben Eldredge at ben@ cibolo.org or call 830-249-4616.

NISD TRUSTEES FEBRUARY The Northside Independent 23 School District board regularly meets at 7 p.m. in the conference room at 5900 Evers Road.

For more, visit www.nisd.net.

JAPANESE ARTISTRY At 7:30 p.m., Boerne Performing 25 Arts presents “Seventeen Samurai” from Champion High School auditorium, 201 Charger Blvd. in Boerne. See innovative choreography and extraordinary precision based on timeless traditional Taiko drumming.

Tickets are $20-$60. For more, visit www.boerneperformingarts.com.

FEBRUARY

BRING YOUR DANCING SHOES FEBRUARY This month’s music lineup at Leon Springs Dancehall, 24135 Interstate 10 West, includes Bobby Marquez (Feb. 12); Cactus Country (Feb. 13); Texas Family Tradition Band (Feb.

19); Jeff Woolsey & the Dancehall Kings (Feb. 20); and Almost Patsy Cline (Feb. 27). Music begins at 8:15 p.m. For more, visit www.leonspringsdancehall.net.

I’M ALL EARS FEBRUARY Things will be grooving at John T. Floore Country Store, 14492 Old Bandera Road in Helotes. Big names highlight weekend entertainment including The Bellamy Brothers (Feb. 12); Asleep at the Wheel (Feb. 26); and the fourth annual Ben Dorcy Day with special guests (Feb. 28). For updated listings including costs and set times, visit liveatfloores.com.

DOG-EARED BOOKS Come to the Youth Department 5 Activity Room at the Heath Public Library, 451 N. Main St. in Boerne, from 10:30-11:30 a.m. and share a book with a trained and certified therapy dog. Through “PAWS 4 Reading,” masters lend their time and their lovable dogs. For more, call 830-249-3053.

MARCH

IT’S ALL FAIR MARCH The Outdoor Family Fair, 5 hosted by the Kendall County Child Service Board, will be in Main Plaza, 100 N. Main St. in Boerne, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event provides an

opportunity to learn about neighborhood services and organizations, while having fun. For more, visit www.ci.boerne.tx.us.

HARVESTING RAINWATER & SOLAR ENERGY 5 Come to the Cibolo Nature Center & Farm’s auditorium, 140 City Park Road in Boerne, from 9 a.m. to noon for a seminar on water and energy conservation and usage. John Kight will lead the presentation. Cost is $25 for nature-center members, $35 for nonmembers. Pre-registration is required.

For more, contact Ben Eldredge at ben@ cibolo.org or call 830-249-4616.

MARCH

MORNING JOG MARCH The last of a three-part race 6 series, “Kick up the Dust 5K/10K Trail Run,” will start at 8 a.m. from Eisenhower Park, 19339 N.W. Military Highway. Registration until Feb. 21 is $25 and $30 for the 5K and 10K, respectively.

For more, visit www.athleteguild.com.

MONDAYS

YOGA FOR NATURE LOVERS Attend the Cibolo Nature Center & Farm, 140 City Park

Road in Boerne, weekly from 6-7:15 p.m. for outdoor exercise. Meet at the visitor center where an instructor from The Yoga House welcomes beginners and advanced practitioners. Cost is $10. For more, call 830-249-4616 or visit nature@cibolo.org.

NEVER TOO OLD TO LEARN Kids don’t have to be the only ones gaining knowledge.

Northside Adult & Community Education currently presents a multitude of enriching programs for grown-ups. To register for courses and find schedules and venues, visit www.nisd.net/acc.

ONGOING

GOODWILL PICKUPS Goodwill Industries offers donation pickup services for large amounts of clothing, household items and furniture at Bexar County residences. For more, call 271-8881 or fill out pickup forms available at www. goodwillsa.org/home-pickup-services.

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SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM

LOCAL LOWDOWN Take a quick look at what’s new in the community from opening and closings to news tidbits.

Open and Opening Soon 1. TILE STUDIO 925, 28721 Interstate 10 West in Boerne’s Fair Oaks Plaza, is run by a husband-and-wife team immersed in the tile industry for more than 20 years. The couple features “tile that talks.” Additional products include glass, mosaics, porcelain, stone-wall coverings, hardwood flooring and quartz. According to the business’ website, “Tile Studio 925 is an upscale tile store for designers, builders, remodelers and homeowners to come and purchase unique tile from all over the world.” Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and by appointment Saturday. For more or to make an appointment, call 830368-4204 or visit www.tilestudio925. com. (See story on page 26) 2. JUICESSENTIAL, 17803 La Cantera

Terrace, Suite 8119, is located in the Éilan retail complex and offers raw juice pressed from 100 percent fresh fruits and vegetables. The juice is unpasteurized, cold-pressed and glassbottled. Hours are 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday.

For more, call 474-6564 or visit www. juicessential.com. (See story on page 27)

3. BOERNE BOAT & RV STORAGE,

29 Scenic Loop Road, is a new facility located south of Boerne offering storage for boats, recreational vehicles and trailers. Covered and open parking is available, with video surveillance, a gated entrance and 24-hour access for clients. Office hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

For more, call 830-386-3005 or visit boerneboatandrvstorage.com.

IN OTHER NEWS

THE BOERNE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT has called an election for May 7 for places on the board of trustees.

All positions are at-large and the filing deadline is Feb. 19. The Place 2 spot vacated in January by Harry Lees, the president of LOCAL Community News, will also be filled in a special election on May 7 and will be for two years.

STATE SEN. JOSÉ MENÉNDEZ RECENTLY OPENED a new Senate District 26 office at Wonderland of the Americas Mall, 4522 Fredericksburg Road, Suite A-3. Guests visited the new office space, met with Senate

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staff members and participated in a resource fair during an open house sponsored by Wonderland of the Americas Mall and the city of Balcones Heights. Menéndez represents some North Side and North Central areas.

DISTRICT 8 COUNCILMAN RON NIRENBERG IS PUSHING FOR a ban on coal tar-based sealants, which are used in constructing roads and parking lots. The councilman recently put the ban proposal before a city committee, according to officials. Nirenberg cites environmental and public-health concerns, saying that coal-tar-based sealants could lead to carcinogens possibly leaching into public water supplies. Nirenberg said there are other sealants available that are more safe and beneficial to public health.

MICHAEL GILLETTE HAS BEEN NAMED 2016 BOERNE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT TEACHER OF THE YEAR, officials said. The social studies instructor has taught since 2008 at Champion High School, when the school opened. He joined the school district in 2007 and is noted for teaching Advanced Placement U.S. history. He also teaches AP human geography and historical periods. The University of Arkansas graduate, who received the 2013 Mirabeau B. Lamar Award for Excellence in Teaching, also coaches football and swimming/diving at Champion. Eight other campus teachers of the year are Bret Bunker at Boerne High School, Susan Giles at Fabra Elementary School, Ed Kinnear at Boerne Middle School South, Alma McFarland at Curington Elementary, Cheryl Reinke at Fair Oaks Ranch Elementary, Val Reissig at Boerne Middle School North, Jessica Sills at Cibolo Creek Elementary and Susan Trizinsky at Kendall Elementary.

THE NORTHSIDE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT board recently approved the promotion of Tracy Wernli, formerly academic dean at Garcia Middle School, to principal.

Lindsey Christian, formerly specialeducation teacher at McAndrew Elementary School, has been named the vice principal at that campus.

LOWDOWN continues on pg. 12

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NORTHSIDE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT TRUSTEE Carol Harle told fellow board members during the Jan. 19 meeting that she was proud to participate in the 50th anniversary of the 1966 Marshall High School state basketball championship team recognition, according to officials. She also mentioned that input from the community was welcomed at a state testing and accountability meeting where parents, trustees, superintendents and students provided testimony about improvements to the Texas accountability system, according to an NISD newsletter.

During the January meeting, trustees appointed three new principals and two vice principals, approved dozens of bond construction projects and OK'd an audit of the district’s financial report.

UT MEDICINE HILL COUNTRY BROKE GROUND JAN. 13, to kick off construction of the newest location of UT Medicine San Antonio, the academic clinical practice of the School of Medicine at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio.

Officials said UT Medicine Hill Country expands access to healthcare services and specialty care provided to the high-growth areas of Leon Springs, Fair Oaks Ranch and Boerne. Orthopedics, primary care, radiology, physical therapy, urology and lab services will be offered in the building. The ceremony took place at 25723 Old Fredericksburg Road.

BEXAR COUNTY COMMISSIONERS COURT unanimously approved an interlocal agreement recently with eight suburban cities in creating a cooperative purchasing program to give them greater acquisition power for commodities and services. Under the agreements, Schertz, Selma, Elmendorf, Grey Forest, Hollywood Park, Kirby, Leon Valley and Sandy Oaks can ride Bexar County contracts with vendors at no extra cost to the county. The co-op allows the cities to reduce expenses when obtaining goods and services, and increase participation of potential sellers in the bid-solicitation process. Adding more municipalities to the cooperative is likely. Participating cities will pay a 1 percent administration fee for each purchase made through the co-op, but the county has the ability to increase or decrease amounts in maintaining costneutral responsibilities for Bexar County.

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13

SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM FAIR OAKS continues from pg. 01

Police say ban is difficult to enforce

by EDMOND ORTIZ

F

AIR OAKS RANCH — After months of debate and study, city officials believe education and a feeding prohibition are the best ways to cope with a skyrocketing deer population.

The City Council voted unanimously Jan. 21 for Interim City Administrator Marcus Jahns to devise a plan implementing a longterm deer-education program for residents, and how to enforce the feeding ban.

Jahns has up to two months to deliver the proposal for council review. Once in place, the city will spend two years examining results.

“It’s a start, it’s a beginning,” said Place 1 Alderwoman MaryAnne Havard.

The council’s action is the latest step in a series of meetings and studies designed to help Fair Oaks Ranch better maintain its deer herd.

An August 2014 report from the Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute at Texas A&M University-Kingsville noted about 1,500 white-tailed deer roam the area, but existing conditions only support about 300.

Jessica Alderson, an urban biologist with the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department, spent time in 2015 with the city seeking a solution. Managing deer has troubled Hill Country communities such as Fair Oaks Ranch for years.

More than 260 residents attended a November town hall where they considered several herd-control choices.

The ranked suggestions gave highest priority to a feeding ban, to trapping, transporting and processing, or TTP,

Bud Holzman addresses the deer-management issue at the Jan. 21 Fair Oaks Ranch City Council meeting. The military veteran indicated his support for an education program so long as it contains viable information. Photo

by Edmond Ortiz

GETTING THE HERD DOWN TO LESS THAN 400 THAT WAY I DON’T THINK IS REALISTIC GIVEN OUR ENVIRONMENT. STEVE HARTPENCE FAIR OAKS RANCH PLACE 3 ALDERMAN and to an education program.

Havard and Place 5 Alderman Garry Manitzas started the Jan. 21 meeting by saying one option – doing nothing – was unacceptable and should be eliminated.

The council debated the others.

Mayor Pro Tem Al Schmidt took issue with two, using sharpshooters and organized archery hunts, commenting they ought to be taken off the table “for a lot of reasons.” Those were among the least popular alternatives among attendees.

Havard agreed with Schmidt, noting in addition to public-safety issues, options involving live ammunition or bows and arrows could spark property-line concerns.

The council members also concurred TTP and trapping, transporting and relocation approaches wouldn’t be efficient fiscally or logistically.

“Getting the herd down to less than 400 that way I don’t think is realistic given our environment,” said Place 3 Alderman Steve Hartpence.

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A mass-sterilization option, also lowly rated, was dropped from consideration.

City leaders felt while public education and a feeding ban would be the most acceptable and viable management methods, they both carry pluses and minuses.

It’s not yet clear exactly what the public-education program could entail.

“We’re trying to make a massive decision tonight, and to do nothing or to go lethal isn’t reasonable. I think we have to be gradual about this,” Havard said. “This is an emotional issue, not an intellectual one.”

“There are pros and cons with everything we do,” added Mayor Cheryl Landman.

More than 60 residents attended the January council session. Discussion was lengthy, and at times tense, as several folks shared a variety of opinions.

Some were fine with the general idea of public education and a feeding prohibition, but wondered about enforcement, and how to measure public tutoring.

One man denounced the council, expressing disappointment when they quickly jettisoned the lethal options, including the TTP method, which scored low marks with attendees.

He added, “we have too many ... deer” – a remark provoking prompt disagreement.

Resident Bud Holzman said, as a military veteran who moved to Fair Oaks Ranch for peace and tranquility, information and a feed ban is preferable to culling the deer herd.

“But, when you start educating the public, it’s got to be good education,” he told the council.

Police Chief Scott Rubin said voluntary compliance with the feeding ban would be helpful, but not very realistic.

Some residents expressed concern the prohibition could create an atmosphere where homeowners call in anonymous tips, which often cannot be verified.

The chief added, “Can we enforce it? Yes. Will it be difficult? Yes.”

14

FEB. 8 - MARCH 14, 2016 Project Location Map

TEXAS 46 IMPROVEMENTS

NEED AND PURPOSE

NEED n The population of Boerne projected to double in size by 2040 n Traffic expected to increase by 50 percent (from 14,200 to 21,600 vehicles per day) between the years 2017 and 2037 46 from Esser Road to Ammann Road nSHLimited pedestrian and bicycle facilities within the Texas 46 corridor

TEXAS 46 continues from pg. 01

Lanes to be widened, more room for bikes

by RON AARON EISENBERG

B

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make sure to us on facebook.com/salocalcommunitynews

OERNE — Officials with both the school district and the state highway department agree — widening the congested lanes of Texas 46 is long overdue, but construction won’t begin until next year.

Heavy traffic along the thoroughfare stretching between Esser and Ammann roads has skyrocketed with growth in businesses and the addition of Champion High School and Cibolo Creek Elementary School.

“We support the commitment to additional traffic-flow solutions,” said David Boggan, a spokesman for the Boerne Independent School District.

A recent public forum hosted by the Texas Department of Transportation at Boerne Civic Center sparked interest in the planned expansion of 46, which will have an impact on commutes to and from the two schools in the future, BISD officials said.

Between 2017 and 2037, TxDOT projects vehicles on 46 will increase 50 percent from 14,200 per day to nearly 22,000.

Boerne’s current population of more than 12,300 is expected to double by 2040.

During the meeting, TxDOT unveiled tactics enlarging 46 from two to four lanes with two-way left-turn lanes and medians.

The proposed project also includes bike lanes and sidewalks.

The $11 million proposal is designed

PURPOSE n Improve existing traffic congestion and mobility as the population and traffic in the area increase n Improve mobility and traffic operations for motorists, pedestrians and bicyclists 3

Source: TxDOT

to improve safety and mobility, according to state highway officials.

Current plans call for bids to be solicited in January 2017 with construction tentatively slated to begin in the spring of the same year. The work could last up to 24 months.

“District leadership certainly recognizes that growth in our community requires investment in infrastructure and facilities to accommodate the continued influx of new families,” Boggan said.

As the school district’s student body increases each year, roadways must keep pace.

“With a districtwide enrollment of 7,900 students today, our latest demographer’s report forecasts that in just five years we will surpass 10,000 students (and) in 10 years we will surpass 12,000 students,” Boggan said.

“So, growth is a matter of course for our community and we appreciate the alliance of governmental entities that work to manage the growth,” he added.

He also said BISD does not expect construction will require a change in start times for either campus — Champion or Cibolo Creek.

A TxDOT release states, “Studies are underway to evaluate potential impacts of the proposed project on social and environmental resources.”

Those include historic-age resources, archaeological resources, parks, cemeteries, threatened and endangered species, vegetation, water, commercial and residential properties, socioeconomics and community cohesion, air quality, traffic noise and hazardous materials, according to TxDOT officials.

Information on the project and updates as they become available can be found on TxDOT’s website at http://www.txdot. gov/inside-txdot/projects/studies/sanantonio/sh-46-esser-ammann.html.

15 MENTORS continues from pg. 01

District conducts reference and background check

by LUCILLE SIMS THOMAS

B

OERNE — Recognizing sometimes that schoolchildren just need someone to talk to, the Boerne Independent School District is seeking volunteers for a mentorship program.

Coordinator Elizabeth Nolen said the counselors serve students in kindergarten through 12th grade districtwide.

“The mission of the program is to build character in youth by facilitating an ongoing relationship with an adult who can provide support and guidance,” Nolen said. “It’s on a one-to-one basis and the adult is a friend, role model and advocate.”

Demand is greatest for those in third through ninth grade, with male grownups really needed. Students can ask to be in the program or be recommended by parents or school officials.

Eleven-year Boerne resident Lance Hirsch has been a BISD volunteer mentor for about two years. The married father of two high school teens finds it very rewarding.

“I put a value on our youth and getting them started out right in life is going to ensure that they stay that way when they are older — and I think our whole community benefits from that,” Hirsch said.

Currently mentoring a fifth-grade boy he first started working with in third grade, Hirsch thinks more males don’t get involved due to time constraints.

“I think a lot of men are not able to find the time with their careers and other commitments they may have,” he said.

Hirsch, who’s also a scoutmaster, owns a computer-programming business, which gives his schedule a little more flexibility. Meeting once a week at lunch, the duo usually talk about what’s occurring in the child’s life; Hirsch also checks if there’s any schoolwork needing attention.

The program is not a tutoring session, but volunteers can assist with coursework if they desire or possess expertise in a subject.

Mentors pledge to confer weekly with students up to an hour. When

MENTORS continues on pg. 16

16

FEB. 8 - MARCH 14, 2016

MENTORS continues from pg. 15

Elizabeth Nolen, who coordinates a mentorship program for students in the Boerne Independent School District, stands with volunteer Lance Hirsch in front of Kendall Elementary School. Adults in the program become role models, friends and advocates for the students; the program needs more adult males. Photo

by Rudy B. Ornelas

background checks and the application process are finished (including a character reference), the adults must attend onehour training sessions held during school hours before being carefully matched with a child based on shared interests.

Proximity to employment is also considered, since it’s easier to visit a student if work or a residence is nearby.

Mostly, boys are assigned male mentors and girls are paired with women, although Nolen said a father recently requested a woman for his son and was granted approval. According to Nolen, girls never are teamed with men.

In recruiting efforts to increase manpower — literally ­— Nolen has a male volunteer accompany her to presentations where the audience is mainly guys. The gentleman conveys his mentoring experience and she’s there as a district employee.

Julia Arroyo mentors to help give back to the community — especially Boerne’s Hispanic sector. The mother of three boys advises two girls, one in elementary school and the other in high school.

“I really enjoy helping to motivate my

girls. I enjoy seeing their faces – when we do something together – I enjoy seeing them happy. I’ve learned a lot from them. I think we teach each other in some way,” Arroyo said.

She’s counseled the students for about three years and said the two are opposites. The younger schoolchild is easy to communicate with while her teenager is shy and quiet.

The five-year Boerne resident stresses the relevance of advising kids.

“It’s very important to be a mentor because you can give a lot of attention and love to children.

The mentor program makes a huge difference in their lives,” she said.

Meanwhile, Hirsch said he looks forward to watching his pupil grow into a fine young man and thinks mentoring helps set him on the straight and narrow.

“That’s the purpose of the program – not to fix something that’s broken,” he said. “It’s to get in there early and stop things from getting to a point where there’s a problem and keeping them on the right path before they get off of it.”

For more about becoming a BISD volunteer mentor, call Nolen at 830-357-2055.

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BRIDGES continues from pg. 01

ABOVE: Anya Grokhovski, founder of Musical Bridges Around the World, is at her office near Leon Springs, framed under artwork promoting the International Music Festival Feb. 12-21. Photo by Rudy B. Ornelas LEFT: The St. Petersburg String Quartet performed at San Fernando Cathedral in a program hosted by Musical Bridges Around the World. Courtesy photo by Robert Michaelson

Number of schools expanding for performances

by SUSAN YERKES

W

hen Anya Grokhovski founded Musical Bridges Around the World, the name she chose reflected an ambitious dream — to build bridges between people of all nations and cultures through music. Eighteen years later, her dream has come true in ways even she could not have imagined.

Today, Grokhovski is the CEO and artistic director of what many say is one of the area’s most vibrant, successful performingarts organizations. Headquartered in an airy office suite/art gallery at 23705 Interstate 10 West, Suite 101, just south of Boerne Stage Road, Grokhovski is the center of a symphony of artistic diversity.

“I feel we create a picture of the world that people can see and come to love,” Grokhovski said. “And that is what I always hoped, even beyond my wildest dreams.”

As leader and artistic director of Musical Bridges, she plans and arranges free

concerts featuring world-class musicians in venues around San Antonio, from the “Musical Evenings at San Fernando Cathedral” series to concerts at the Heath Public Library in Boerne. Kids to Concerts, another culturally diverse project that brings visiting performers to area schools, has taken off like a rocket.

From Feb. 12-21, Musical Bridges Around the World's International Music Festival will present five concerts, beginning with a Jazz Invocation at Trinity University’s Laurie Auditorium starring Bill Frisell, Eric Harland, Charles Lloyd and other greats.

“Persian Impressions” at the Charline McCombs Empire Theatre, “Singing Strings” at the University of the Incarnate Word Motherhouse Chapel, “L’Histoire Soldat” (with ballet highlights) at the Carver Community Cultural Center and a combination of colorful folk dance with Russian-infused music, Souvenir de

Russie,” at San Antonio College's McAllister Auditorium, fill out the festival bill.

While the concerts are free and open to the public — an important part of the group’s mission is to be accessible both geographically and financially to all — $50 festival memberships are available to guarantee premium seats for all five performances as well as private receptions.

The energy and imagination involved in the organization’s work seems to stream out of Grokhovski the way notes fly from her fingers at the piano.

Her own story bridges a great cultural divide. Considered a brilliant concert pianist in the old Soviet Union, she came to the United States in 1998 with both her 6-year-old son and then-husband Valery, also a musician, who was on a cultural exchange program in Illinois.

BRIDGES continues on pg. 18

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BRIDGES continues from pg. 17 Anya knew three words of English, and found her first visit to an American Walmart a “life-changing experience.”

She soaked up America like a sponge.

Three years later, the couple moved to San Antonio for teaching positions at the University of Texas at San Antonio.

Grokhovski was fascinated by the rich, widely diverse musical traditions that swirled around her in the Alamo City.

She began staging small concerts with friends, and reaching out to create new cultural harmonies. In 2003, urged on by supportive friends and fans, she ventured into the nonprofit world by forming Musical Bridges Around the World, organizing world-class programs from a makeshift studio in her Leon Springs home.

As her support base grew, so did her networks and connections, both locally and throughout the international music world.

Board president Dr. Eric Miller and his wife Michelle, who also is a physician, became supporters after their first concert eight years ago.

“We have always loved classical music,” Miller said. “Even when we were both med students at Baylor (University), on a student budget, we managed to afford season tickets to the symphony. We’re

also both involved in a lot of charitable organizations, but Musical Bridges is really the backbone for us. It’s just wonderful.”

He added, “Especially in our Kids to Concerts program, where we bring these amazing different artists that really ‘wow’ serious aficionados to kids in poor or at-risk schools. Everyone I introduce to what we do is enthralled. But still with all we do I find a lot of people who have not heard about us yet, so we’re working to get more visibility as we expand our programs.”

The Kids to Concerts program has grown by leaps and bounds, serving to bring music and understanding of diverse international cultures into the schools, which over time have expanded from just a handful to 50, with 115 more on the waiting list.

Since one of Musical Bridges’ main goals is to keep its concerts and programs free and open to the public, corporate and foundation gifts, as well as individual donors’ support, is key, and that is growing, too. After a particularly generous donation from the Kronkosky Charitable Foundation, this year’s budget has gone up more than 20 percent, to over $800,000.

What Grokhovski and her staff achieve with that is astounding, according to Director of Development & Marketing Suhail Arastu.

BRIDGES continues on pg. 21

I LOVE THE UNITED STATES BECAUSE IT’S THE BIGGEST MELTING POT IN THE WORLD, AND THERE IS A UNIQUE CULTURAL ATMOSPHERE HERE I FIND VERY INSPIRING. ANYA GROKHOVSKI, MUSICAN BRIDGES AROUND THE WORLD FOUNDER

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SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM BRIDGES continues from pg. 18 Arastu discovered Musical Bridges when a friend who was a renowned Japanese pianist visited him in San Antonio years ago.

When he learned about Musical Bridges, he called Grokhovski to ask about the possibility of setting up a concert in San Antonio, and that resulted in a magical evening at San Fernando Cathedral, part of one of the group’s long-running free concert series.

Arastu joined the board soon after, and took over the development job.

When Musical Bridges finally opened an office in Leon Springs a few years ago, it seemed natural to bring the visual arts into the mix, so part of the space is devoted to a gallery featuring rotating exhibitions, each debuting with a musical, multicultural evening reception. The current display includes nature photographs by Grokhovski’s current husband, retired Air Force Col. Dr. Robert Michaelson.

He takes an enthusiastic hand in Musical Bridges’ work, from photographing performances to maintaining the Facebook page.

Most recently, Musical Bridges formed a partnership with the Boerne Public Library Foundation to present concerts at the city’s public library.

“We’ve had a concert series for about six years, but it was mostly area entertainers,”

said Library Foundation Executive Director Ariel Brooks-Stevens, “but our board wanted to focus more on cultural enrichment, and I found Musical Bridges, and Anya was wonderful to work with. We had about 80 people at the first concert last October, but people said, ‘Oh my gosh! It’s amazing!’ and when word got out, there were more than 300 people at the one in January. It is wonderful and humbling to work with Musical Bridges – they have opened so many doors for us.

The quality of the concerts really makes people who initially weren’t interested take us more seriously. It has enhanced what people think of the library.”

Although Grokhovski has had to give up the small music school she started, and plays fewer concerts herself in order to focus on Musical Bridges, the organization has filled her life with joy and purpose.

“I love the United States because it’s the biggest melting pot in the world, and there is a unique cultural atmosphere here I find very inspiring,” she said. “The world has changed in the last 18 years, and we are changing with it, falling in love with new cultures and building bridges to them.”

For more on the program or concerts, call 464-1534 or visit www. musicalbridges.org or facebook.com/ MusicalBridgesAroundTheWorld.

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FEB. 8 - MARCH 14, 2016

HOA continues from pg. 01

Bill revamped procedures for violations • GROUP CLASSES

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orth Side homeowners and property owners associations are having generally favorable reactions to several bills passed by the Legislature in 2015 governing their organizations.

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While lawmakers had relatively little impact upon HOAs and POAs following their 2013 session, last year’s Legislature ratified 39 specific laws with wider ramifications for POAs, HOAs and condominium associations.

Now with five months passing since the laws were enacted, neighborhood leaders have few complaints.

“The last legislative session was generally positive,” said Art Downey, a North Side resident and board president of Texas Neighborhoods Together, an alliance of communities.

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Downey also serves with the Stone Oak Property Owners Association, an umbrella group, and with his subdivision’s HOA. He also has led the District 9 Neighborhood Alliance, a consortium of 30 organizations.

Arguably, Senate Bill 1168 carried the most significant weight with HOAs and POAs. The bill amended numerous provisions in state property code which governs condominium and subdivision associations. It went into effect Sept. 1.

SB 1168 was meant to clarify and correct some legal provisions adopted during the 2011 legislative session.

One of the more comprehensive amendments changed the procedures and requirements for HOA voting and elections. For example, HOAs only need to provide one method of voting to owners, but must make balloting available by absentee or proxy.

Also, recount demands should follow a specific timeline. In addition, written ballots are no longer required for every vote, but are needed in elections to fill a board position.

These are just some changes in rules affecting HOA voting and elections.

Dallas-area state Sen. Royce West, a Democrat, authored SB 1168. Rep. Jason Villalba, R-Dallas was the House sponsor.

HOA continues on pg. 23

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SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM HOA continues from pg. 22 “Senate Bill 1168 made it easier to understand a lot of requirements,” Downey said.

“Senator West has been following this issue closely. His office and ours found ambiguities in the statute,” said Connie Heyer of Niemann & Heyer, an Austin firm specializing in property-owner association law.

Niemann said, for the most part, SB 1168 helped to define HOA voting rules and “tighten up the intent of the statute.”

The bill affects other aspects of governing

by HOA directors, such as expanding the list of topics requiring a 72-hour notice prior to a board meeting. The added subjects include lending or borrowing money, filling a board vacancy and capital improvements.

Also, SB 1168 revamped HOA procedures for acting on violations. Heyer said the bill better defines the two types of infringements — fixable and “incurable.”

Examples of curable transgressions include parking or maintenance infractions, failure to construct improvements according to approved plans, and ongoing noise issues such as a barking dog.

Some instances of offenses considered not curable involve shooting fireworks, loud parties, property

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Clarified and corrected some legal provisions adopted during the 2011 legislative session, including the procedures and requirements for HOA voting and elections Expanded the list of topics requiring a 72-hour notice prior to a board meeting, i.e. ending or borrowing money, filling a board vacancy and capital improvements

Sen. Royce West (D)

Rep. Jason Villalba (R)

Revamped HOA procedures for acting on violations by dividing infringements into two categories: fixable and "incurable."

damage or changing a landscape.

“Everybody should be able to have a chance to cure their issue before there are consequences,” Heyer said.

However, if violators don’t, notices sent to owners no longer have to give people a chance to fix them — a fine or damage assessment can be issued immediately.

“We closed loopholes in the statute there,” she added.

Downey said better definitions of violations help, but more improvement is needed.

“There’s kind of a fine line,” he said.

“There has to be a way to enforce it.”

Heyer said her firm has received mostly positive reviews so far from HOAs and POAs statewide about the new regulations. She and Downey agreed, though, the level of any new law’s effectiveness depends on a point of view.

“Board members are trying to enforce deed restrictions, and property managers are trying to do their jobs,” Heyer said. “It helps when your association is professionally managed. It’s getting more difficult for associations that aren’t managed professionally because laws are becoming more intricate.”

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The opening of a Planned Parenthood office near a Northwest Side neighborhood led District 10 Councilman Mike Gallagher to push for changes to the Unified Development Code, allowing neighbors more notification of potential clinics and dental offices. Photo by Rudy B. Ornelas

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Clinics near neighborhoods face more scrutiny

by RON AARON EISEBERG

T

he opening of a Planned Parenthood facility near a neighborhood has prompted District 10 Councilman Mike Gallagher to champion revised zoning that could limit where future outpatient surgery and dental offices are located.

The move — which calls for more notifications of residents and neighborhood groups, as well as additional scrutiny

by City Council — is being hailed as a victory by pro-life activists.

Gallagher’s amendment to the city’s Unified Development Code, approved by City Council in a 7-4 vote in December, tightens the rules on opening ambulatory surgical centers and dental offices in neighborhoodcommercial and C-1 zoning districts.

“I am very much pleased with the UDC changes,” Gallagher said. “The changes now allow neighborhoods to have a voice in a very important process.”

In a community newsletter, Gallagher said by requiring a conditional use for the neighborhood-commercial and C-1 zoning districts, “Any business that falls under the definition of an ambulatory surgical center, clinic or other types of medical and dental offices will have to appear before the Zoning Commission and City Council and present their case for approval.”

This allows neighborhood associations to receive prior notification “of a potential new clinic, or medical or dental operation requesting to operate in their area, and indicate their opinion to the Zoning Commission and their council member before a vote,” the Northeast Side councilman added.

Neighborhood-commercial districts include “small areas for offices, professional services, service and shopfront retail uses; all designed in scale with surrounding residential development,” according to a city website. Examples include petgrooming shops and bookstores.

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SALOCALLOWDOWN.COM CLINIC continues from pg. 24 C-1 districts involve commercial areas that have heavier traffic. They can include video-game arcades, small-animal clinics, office-supply stores and apartments.

San Antonio Family Association Chairman Patrick Von Dohlen called the Gallagher amendment “a pro-family, proresidential property owners’ rights victory.”

“With its passage, the Gallagher amendment should help bring public awareness of most any future situation where there is an attempt to move an abortion facility next to family homes,” he said.

For anti-abortion activists, the issue over locating same-day surgical centers came to a head when Planned Parenthood of South Texas purchased a building at 2140 Babcock Road in District 8 Councilman Ron Nirenberg’s district.

The building, close to the Dreamhill Estates neighborhood, had previously been used for medical procedures.

According to its website, this Planned Parenthood doesn’t perform abortions but offers referrals.

Under zoning regulations at the time, the Zoning Commission and council found no reason to stop Planned Parenthood from locating on Babcock Road. The family of clinics provide a variety of women’s health services.

In addition to Gallagher and District 9 Councilman Joe Krier, Mayor Ivy Taylor and council members Alan Warrick, Ray Lopez, Cris Medina and Rebecca Viagran voted for the change.

It does not affect the Planned Parenthood facility on Babcock Road because UDC amendments are not retroactive.

“All surrounding property owners deserve to be notified openly in advance and have a chance to speak out about a new ASC (ambulatory surgical center) moving in next to them,” Von Dohlen said.

Gallagher hailed the change in the UDC. “I wanted to be sure neighborhoods

25 had a voice in any changes involving dental offices or ambulatory surgical units,” he said. “I had received a number of emails on the issue; complaints about neighbors not being involved in the decision to place Planned Parenthood in the Dreamhill neighborhood.”

The clinics do not have to seek approval beforehand if locating in more substantial business districts such as C-2 or C-3.

Nirenberg, who cast a dissenting vote, said, “Neighborhoods have every right to have a voice in the process of rezoning and we do.”

“Unfortunately, the UDC amendment that was passed only paid lip service to that right – the vast majority of properties adjacent to residential areas are (zoned) C-2 and above and were untouched by the amendment,” he added.

“The end result is more red tape with no net effect. That’s bad governance,” Nirenberg said.

Planned Parenthood of South Texas spokeswoman Mara Posada noted the UDC amendment does not affect the facility on Babcock Road.

“The groups that oppose our facility in the (South Texas) Medical Center oppose all our health centers, no matter where they are located,” Posada said. “We have made no changes to increase the building’s external footprint. This is the same 22,000-squarefoot medical office building where people have been seeking health care for 32 years.”

She added, “We’ve been providing health care at our new clinic since last summer, including Pap tests that screen for cervical cancer, breast exams, a wide range of birth-control options, abortion care, testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections, HIV testing and so much more.”

The issue is far from resolved, however. Von Dohlen called for “further changes in the UDC to address the definition of ambulatory surgical centers as it applies to abortion clinics.”

And he promised, “SAFA’s work to educate and bring justice to this improper situation will continue.”

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New tile studio has customers covered

by ERIC MORENO

S

tefanie and Trenton Teat are the owners of the recently opened Tile Studio 925, a posh enterprise for designers, builders, remodelers and do-it-yourself homeowners.

The husband-and-wife team, involved in the tile industry for more than 20 years, set up shop last September at 28721 Interstate 10 West in Fair Oaks Plaza.

The duo had a specific vision in mind when they launched: Be a specialty business where one could purchase unique tiles from all over the globe.

“Most high-end tile stores carry only very expensive, upscale tile,”

Stefanie Teat said. “Other reputable tile manufacturers carry quality basics that every home needs, but they don’t sell the unique, one-of-a-kind tile that can’t be found anywhere else. We do.

We offer the best of both worlds.”

She added Tile Studio 925 aims to be the proverbial one-stop shop.

“We carry floor and wall tile, mosaics, glass, stone, travertine, porcelain, cement tile, stacked stone and more,” Teat said. “We also have tile for residential and commercial projects, swimming pools — indoor and outdoor. In store, we offer free Wi-Fi; we have a good sound system, and an all-around positive, inviting atmosphere.”

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Drink up at JUICEssential for health and well-being

by PETER MORALEZ

A

ttending a seminar a couple of years ago, Lackland Air Force Base dentist Suzana Gjekaj sampled fresh juice and started thinking about getting other people to drink healthy.

Gjekaj and some friends recently opened JUICEssential, 17803 La Cantera Terrace, Suite 8119. The upscale Éilan retail complex juice bar sells cleansing and healing drinks.

“It really was to try and bring about a healthier community here,” Gjekaj said. “After being stationed overseas, I realized that what we’re missing is more quality foods. We don’t eat enough fruits and vegetables because it’s hard with our

lifestyle to have a convenient option.”

Original JUICEssential recipes utilize a special mixer, slowly combining nutritious ingredients.

“High-speed juicers damage the nutrients through friction, and blenders destroy them through heat,” she said.

Fresh is key at JUICEssential.

“Everything is straight from the source – that is, straight from the ground, just fruits and vegetables,” Gjekaj said.

“What you usually buy in the store is a pasteurized juice, and it’s been cooked so the nutrients are gone.”

Glass bottles are used to help preserve the liquid, and the store recycles the containers.

“It’s better for the environment and preserves the nutrients better than plastic,” Gjekaj said.

All of the greens are organic, Gjekaj

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JUICEssential sells a variety of fresh juices for health and vitality, aimed at beginners to advanced. Photo by Collette Orquiz

said; she buys mainly from local farmers.

Free of most insoluble fiber, juices aren’t pasteurized; Gjekaj donates the pulp.

“We give it to local farmers – some of them use it to feed their livestock, and some use it as fertilizer,” she said.

Gjekaj has just signed on for another 2 1/2 years in San Antonio to take part in a specialty program for pediatric dentistry, and will stay involved with the juice bar.

“We just want some time to get this right before we start expanding, but

getting more people to drink healthy juice is definitely in the plan,” she added.

Hours are 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday.

JUICEssential 17803 La Cantera Terrace, Suite 8119 For more, call 474-6564 or visit www.facebook.com/JUICEssential or juicessential.com

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